I chose to study English Literature in college, believing it would provide me with a foundation to pivot into various fields, which it indeed did. With an inherent appreciation for problem-solving nurtured by literature’s emphasis on critical thinking and analysis, as well as a fondness for storytelling and language, transitioning into conversational AI felt like a natural fit. The shift from studying literature to becoming a Conversational Architect was not the flipping of a switch. It was a gradual change that included jobs in project management, marketing, and receiving my MBA before leaping into CAI. Designing effective conversations requires a diverse skill set that I was able to acquire through my journey into this field.

A career in conversational AI is a creative one in nature, and no two members of the team manage the job or design conversational flows the same way. I integrate storytelling and writing techniques into the user journeys, infusing creativity into our designs. I leverage my analytical skills and professional experience when consulting with clients to understand their business requirements.

My favorite aspect of the job is definitely the team. In terms of the job itself, I really appreciate that we are constantly learning in an ever-changing field. Each client has different needs and presents a different challenge. Because of this, no two days are the same. And each design, discovery, and implementation is completely different from others.

In a recent client project, we encountered the challenge of maintaining context gracefully. It became evident that we needed to ensure continuity in conversations while accommodating user deviations from the expected flow. We needed to enable smooth transitions between different contexts, even when users strayed from their initial intent or asked unrelated questions. To tackle this, we developed a solution incorporating context management mechanisms capable of recognizing shifts in conversation topics and adjusting context accordingly. By implementing this strategy, we were able to enhance the overall conversational flow, providing users with a more seamless and engaging experience.

The field of CAI has undergone significant evolution since I first entered it, and I anticipate that further advancements in NLU and AI/ML will lead to interactions that feel increasingly human-like. However, along with these advancements come heightened concerns regarding privacy, legality, and ethics. As the field continues to progress, it will be crucial to address these issues to ensure responsible and ethical development.

I’d say it’s been both challenging and extremely rewarding. There have absolutely been instances where I have faced gender-based stereotypes, but 66degrees, and particularly my manager, have fostered a safe and inclusive environment. This support made it much easier to tackle such issues when they arose. By and far, I’ve had a positive experience, allowing for my personal and professional growth, and offering the privilege of collaborating with remarkable women along the way.

Weather permitting, you’ll often find me outdoors, accompanied by my dog. Whether it’s a leisurely stroll or an energetic game of fetch at the park, I enjoy spending time in nature enjoying the company of my furry companion.